Pop Culture Happy Hour
NPR
Get obsessed with us. Four days a week, Pop Culture Happy Hour serves you recommendations and commentary on the buzziest movies, TV, music, books, videogames and more. Join arts journalists Linda Holmes, Glen Weldon, Stephen Thompson, and Aisha Harris - plus a rotating cast of guest pop culture aficionados. The Happy Hour team leaves room at the table for exploring a range of reactions and opinions on every bit of the pop universe. From lowbrow to highbrow to the stuff in between, they take it all with a shot of cheer.Make your happy hour even happier with Pop Culture Happy Hour Plus! Your subscription supports the podcast and unlocks a sponsor-free feed. Learn more at plus.npr.org/happyhour
Episodes
Mentioned books
May 17, 2024 • 24min
Back To Black And What's Making Us Happy
Marisa Abela stars in the music biopic 'Back to Black' about Amy Winehouse's struggles with addiction and relationships. Critics discuss disappointments in the film's character development and portrayal of addiction. The podcast also explores missed opportunities in depicting female pop stars and celebrates the winner of the Tiny Desk Contest.
May 16, 2024 • 17min
Babes gives us a funny (and gross) portrait of parenthood
Ilana Glazer and Michelle Buteau discuss the joys and challenges of parenthood in the movie 'Babes'. The podcast explores themes of friendship, chosen family, and balancing comedy and drama in the film. They delve into the unconventional portrayal of motherhood and the impact of supporting characters in the movie.
May 15, 2024 • 22min
Looking to the past and future of Black Twitter
Explore the origins and impact of Black Twitter, from entertainment to activism. Dive into the new Hulu documentary shedding light on its global reach. Reflect on the platform's evolution and future under Elon Musk's ownership. Rediscover the unique subcultures and unity within Black Twitter community.
6 snips
May 14, 2024 • 23min
I Saw the TV Glow is weird and transfixing
Actors Justice Smith and Brigette Lundy-Paine discuss a captivating film where teenagers bond over a TV show. The movie explores themes of identity, self-acceptance, and emotional impact. The integration of music and unique soundtrack adds depth to the storyline.
May 13, 2024 • 16min
Sink your teeth into Interview with the Vampire
Exploring the fresh take on 'Interview with the Vampire' with a Black, ambitious, and closeted Louis. Discussion on themes of seduction, danger, and domestic dynamics. Analysis of vampires as power fantasy with nuanced race and class themes. Insights on Claudia's impact and visual aesthetics of the show.
May 10, 2024 • 24min
Kingdom Of The Planet Of The Apes And What's Making Us Happy
Owen Teague, Kevin Durand, Peter Maykin, and Freya Allan discuss the new movie Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, highlighting a chimpanzee leading enslaved apes against a ruthless king. The podcast also covers critiques of underdeveloped characters in franchise films, the importance of Fast and Furious innovation, joy from Vanderpump Rules recaps, and the magic of music collaborations.
7 snips
May 9, 2024 • 22min
The Drake-Kendrick Lamar Beef
Delving into the intense rap beef between Kendrick Lamar and Drake, the podcast explores the concept of a 'winner' in music battles. It also sheds light on the treatment of women in the feud and discusses the societal impact of music beef dynamics.
May 8, 2024 • 22min
Dua Lipa's Radical Optimism
British singer Dua Lipa discusses her album 'Radical Optimism' and its catchy bangers. The podcast explores her journey to stardom, evolution in music, hit songs, and impact on the industry.
May 7, 2024 • 17min
Unfrosted
Jerry Seinfeld directs and co-writes 'Unfrosted,' a Netflix film about Pop-Tart origins. The star-studded cast includes Melissa McCarthy and Amy Schumer. The hosts analyze the movie's humor, Seinfeld's portrayal, and debate the best Pop-Tart flavor. They also discuss the love for fruit-flavored pop-tarts and funny moments involving them.
May 6, 2024 • 27min
Jerrod Carmichael Reality Show
Comedian Jerrod Carmichael showcases his unfiltered journey in his HBO reality show, delving into uncomfortable intimacy, strained family dynamics, and personal revelations. The series offers a candid and introspective look into his flawed and selfish nature, sparking conversations on authenticity and diversity in storytelling.
